Two of the Women’s National Basketball League’s (WNBL) best will face off on December 20 to shine a spotlight on young people living with diabetes as Sydney Flames forward, Lara McSpadden, takes on the Townsville Fire’s Lauren Cox.   

Lara McSpadden is a Diabetes Australia Blue Circle Collective Ambassador and Lauren Cox is a Diabetes Australia Blue Circle Collective Community Advocate.  

Both athletes live with type 1 diabetes, with the match highlighting awareness, early screening, and support for people living with diabetes.   

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain thanked Lara and the Flames for supporting people living with diabetes to attend their home game, saying the basketball stars from both teams are proof that diabetes is no barrier to living a full life, including competing at an elite level.   

“A type 1 diabetes diagnosis can be quite confronting, especially for young people and their families,” she said.   

“But, as Lara and Lauren have proven, people living with diabetes can live active, fulfilling lives and reach their full potential.  

“These athletes are an inspiration and Diabetes Australia is grateful to the Sydney Flames for their support of both Lara and Sydney families living with diabetes attending the game.”  

Diabetes Australia Ambassador Lara McSpadden said her type 1 diabetes diagnosis came as a shock, but with the right support and management, she was able to continue her basketball journey. 

“There is a lot of extra decision-making, especially when I was first diagnosed, but I was still able to do all the things I did before, with my parents being massive supporters and taking on a lot of the learning,” she said.    

“I’ve been lucky enough that on each team I’ve played for, my teammates and staff have been very supportive, and always making sure it’s an environment where I can get the things I need to make sure my performance is high whilst keeping my levels right.  

“Living with diabetes is a marathon, not a sprint, and if you beat yourself up over little things it’ll be a challenge. Just ride the wave and make small adjustments, and usually positive results will come.” 

Ms Cain said Diabetes Australia is asking Australians to be aware of the signs of diabetes, and to understand that support is available for people at risk, newly diagnosed, and those living with diabetes, as well as their families.     

“We’re encouraging everyone to be aware of the four Ts of type 1 diabetes – thirst, thinner, toilet, and tired,” she said.  

“If you recognise these symptoms, contact your health professional for advice as soon as possible.  

“Help and support is available through Diabetes Australia and dedicated programs like DiaBuddies, which supports young people living with type 1 diabetes and their families with information, resources, and community. 

“Diabetes YOUnited, our national membership program, is also a fantastic source of information and support for people living with all types of diabetes.” 

The Diabetes Australia annual Christmas Appeal is currently underway, raising funds that will provide life changing support for families and young people navigating life with all types of diabetes.   

For more information or to support the Christmas appeal, visit diabetesaustralia.com.au